Ontario Construction News staff writer
Pomerleau is urging the construction industry to mobilize for what it calls the “project of the century” to address critical infrastructure needs. The company stresses that Canada will require large-scale projects to meet challenges in energy and climate transition, housing, healthcare, education, and transportation. However, these efforts will be complicated by a significant shortage of skilled workers.
In the summer of 2024, Pomerleau conducted a survey in partnership with Léger to gauge the public’s views on the construction industry. Key findings include:
- Ninety per cent of respondents agree construction is essential to economic development.
- Seventy-four per cent believe physical strength is required to work in construction.
- Sixty-four per cent say it remains difficult for women to succeed in the industry.
- Fifty-six per cent would recommend a construction career to their children, and fifty-five per cent see the sector as offering attractive prospects for young people.
The survey highlights widespread public understanding of the construction industry’s role in building strong communities but also points to outdated perceptions regarding physicality and gender equity in the field.
“We need to make construction trades more appealing to a wider range of people. Our industry is full of passionate workers committed to improving lives through essential infrastructure,” Pomerleau CEO Philippe Adam said in a statement.
To meet the demand for skilled labour—estimated at 300,000 new workers over the next decade—Pomerleau has launched several initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining talent. Speaking to an audience of 600 at the Canadian Club, Adam, along with Audrey Murray, CEO, Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ), outlined solutions for addressing both the workforce shortage and infrastructure demands.
Among the initiatives already implemented by Pomerleau are:
- PX3 Training Centre: A cutting-edge facility offering advanced training.
- Internship Program: A hands-on program providing unique worksite experience for students.
- Electric Vehicle Incentives: Offering $2,000 for employees purchasing electric vehicles, alongside a referral program.
- International Recruitment: Missions aimed at attracting skilled workers from abroad.
- Défi Sportif: A nationwide initiative that brings together nearly 1,000 employees for charitable activities and fitness challenges.
- Employee Share Ownership: A program offering employees the chance to own a stake in the company.
Looking ahead, Pomerleau is planning additional initiatives for 2025, including a partnership with CCQ to promote the trades and encourage healthier workplace practices. The company will also dedicate over 30 per cent of its donations and sponsorships to support diversity initiatives, particularly for women, youth, and Indigenous communities. Key projects include:
- Academos: A mentorship platform for young people.
- The Atlantic Engineering Competition: A competition for students in engineering.
- Dalhousie Women in Engineering Society: A group dedicated to supporting women in the field.
- Groupe Génie au féminin: A fund supporting women in engineering at the University of Sherbrooke.
- Skills Ontario and Women’s Infrastructure Network: Programs aimed at increasing the number of women in construction.